Scenic view in Hiroshima Prefecture. Photo courtesy of Hiroshima Prefecture
You may have seen photographs of a striking torii gate that appears to float on the sea. Among the hundreds of thousands of torii gates in Japan, this one is unique—it was constructed with its foundation set on the seabed of a tidal bay, designed so that even at high tide, its massive pillars rise above the water.
Today, let’s explore Miyajima Island, home to this extraordinary torii and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Itsukushima Shrine. Discover the beauty, history, and cultural significance of this sacred island.
What is a Torii Gate?
A torii is an iconic structure marking the entrance to a Shinto shrine, symbolizing the boundary between the ordinary world and the sacred realm.
The Great Torii of Itsukushima Shrine, standing offshore in Hatsukaichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture, serves the same purpose—it represents the gateway to Miyajima, a place revered as sacred since ancient times.
For centuries, the entire island of Miyajima has been considered a divine land, often referred to as the “Island of the Gods.” The torii gate has long served as a symbolic landmark for those traveling to and from this holy site by boat.
Even today, visitors can experience this historic journey firsthand. When weather conditions permit, hand-rowed boats, known as rokai-bune, offer an opportunity to pass directly beneath the torii at high tide.
The moment the boat glides through the gate, cheers of excitement erupt from passengers of all ages and nationalities.
At low tide, the seabed around the torii becomes exposed, allowing visitors to walk directly up to the massive structure. Many take the opportunity to stand beneath it, admiring its grandeur before walking back to the shrine.
From a distance, the Great Torii already appears impressive, but standing at its base is awe-inspiring. Towering 16.6 meters (54 feet) high, it is as tall as a five-story apartment building in the United States.
Tours and Tickets to Experience Miyajima Island
The Historic Itsukushima Shrine
Looking beyond the torii toward the bay, you’ll find Itsukushima Shrine, long revered as a protector of seafarers. Some records suggest it was founded in the 6th century, though it may be even older.
Over time, the shrine has been rebuilt and expanded with support from influential aristocrats like the Fujiwara clan and military leaders such as Taira no Kiyomori.
The shrine’s current structures date primarily from 1241, but their architectural style reflects an earlier influence: Shinden-zukuri, a design traditionally used in the palaces of Heian-era nobility.
In the early modern period, the shrine became a significant pilgrimage site for commoners as well. In 1996, it was officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, solidifying its status as one of Japan’s most treasured cultural landmarks.
Today, Miyajima continues to attract visitors from all over the world. In 2024, a record-breaking 4.85 million people visited the island, the highest number since official records began in 1964. The number of foreign tourists alone reached 643,784, marking a 40% increase from the previous year.
For many, the highlight of the visit is witnessing Itsukushima Shrine’s unique relationship with the sea. At high tide, the water rises beneath the shrine’s wooden structures, creating the mesmerizing illusion that the entire shrine is floating on the waves.
Standing within the shrine, visitors can smell the sea, hear the water lapping beneath the floorboards, and feel the ocean’s movement. When these moments align with sunrise or sunset, the view becomes even more breathtaking.
Exploring Beyond the Shrine: The Charm of Miyajima
Miyajima offers more than just its famous shrine. The island’s bustling town, beautiful nature and local cuisine make it an unforgettable destination.
One of the first things visitors notice upon arrival is the presence of wild deer. Much like in Nara, the deer of Miyajima have coexisted peacefully with humans for centuries and are remarkably friendly, often approaching tourists.
Walking toward the shrine, you’ll pass through Omotesando Shopping Street, the island’s main commercial area. This lively traditional townscape is lined with charming machiya (historic townhouses), many of which have been converted into cafés, inns and specialty shops.
Here, you can sample Miyajima’s famous treats, including:
- Momiji Manju (Maple-shaped sweet cakes)
- Fresh oysters (Miyajima is known for oyster farming, producing plump, creamy oysters)
- Anago-meshi (Grilled conger eel over rice)
- Local craft beer
Speaking of oysters, my friend works as an oyster farmer on the island. He proudly explains that Miyajima oysters are rich and flavorful thanks to the island’s nutrient-rich waters. Be sure to try them while you’re here.
For those staying overnight, hiking Mount Misen (535m / 1,755ft) is highly recommended. The summit offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view, encompassing the Seto Inland Sea, the city of Hiroshima, and even the distant mountains of Shikoku.
A ropeway takes visitors partway up the mountain, making the hike accessible to most travelers. If you have time, the journey to the top is well worth it.
How to Get to Miyajima
Miyajima is easily accessible from Hiroshima City, which is not only the prefectural capital but also a city of profound historical significance.
As the first place in the world to experience an atomic bombing, Hiroshima is home to the Peace Memorial Park and the Atomic Bomb Dome, important sites for learning about history and reflecting on the importance of peace.
Many visitors combine a trip to Hiroshima with a visit to Miyajima, making it a meaningful and enriching travel experience.
Best Accommodations in Miyajima Island
Transportation from Hiroshima to Miyajima
Train + Ferry (Most Common Route)
- Total travel time: 45–60 minutes
- JR Sanyo Line (Hiroshima Station → Miyajimaguchi Station)
- Time: ~25 minutes
- Fare: 420 yen
- Frequency: ~4 trains per hour
- Miyajima Ferry (JR or Matsudai Ferry)
- Route: Miyajimaguchi Pier → Miyajima Pier
- Time: ~10 minutes
- Fare: 300 yen (one-way, adult)
- Operated by: JR West Ferry & Matsudai Ferry (same price)
Car + Ferry
- Total travel time: 40–60 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Drive from Hiroshima City to Miyajimaguchi Ferry Terminal (~30–45 minutes)
- Note: Private cars are not allowed on Miyajima, so parking is required at Miyajimaguchi.
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Author Bio: Masayoshi Sakamoto is a Japanese writer, translator, and editor living in Toyama, Japan. He is the editor-in-chief of a local magazine, Hokuroku, and was the chief editor of a popular digital business magazine based in Tokyo, bizSPA!
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